Assisted Stair Training Machine and Methods of Using

Abstract

An assisted stair training machine. The machine includes a stationary platform having a planar upper surface positioned parallel to a reference plane and at a predetermined distance above the reference plane; a movable platform having a planar upper surface and being configured to move from a first position to a second position, and a lifting mechanism. The planar upper surface of the movable platform is substantially level with the reference plane in the first position, and the planar upper surface of the movable platform is substantially level with the planar upper surface of the stationary platform in the second position. The lifting mechanism is configured to move the movable platform from the first position to the second position and from the second position back to the first position at a predetermined speed.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 107,326, filed Oct. 21, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention is directed to a machine and methods for controlled stair training and sit-to-stand training. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a machine and methods for assisting physical therapy patients in effective stair training and sit-to-stand training while avoiding incorrect movements that could lead to injury.[0004]2. Background of the Related Art[0005]Physical therapy patients are usually trained for stair climbing using isolated steps that vary in height, for example, from two inches up to eight inches. This training can be extremely difficult for older patients, for patients suffering from severe injuries to their lower extremities, and for patients recov...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]A method of performing a stretching exercise is also provided. The method includes the steps of placing a first body part on a movable platform having a planar upper surface positioned parallel to a reference plane; placing a second body part on a floor surface substantially co-planar with the reference plane; moving the

Problems solved by technology

This training can be extremely difficult for older patients, for patients suffering from severe injuries to their lower extremities, and for patients recovering from major surgeries such as hip or knee surgery.

During stair training, these patients may end up using incorrect biomechanics and muscle strategies, such as using the hamstring for knee extension, or forceful knee locking, rather than the correct muscle strategy of using the quadriceps and gluteals to go up the step.

The incorrect biomechanics may aggravate existing injuries and may make the patient susceptible to other knee, hip, and lower back injuries.

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